Simrad AP70 Mk2 Autopilot Control Head – Marine Autopilot System for Commercial Vessels

AP70 Mk2 Autopilot - Control Head Only

The AP70 Mk2 is a dedicated autopilot controller designed to meet the needs of professional mariners aboard a variety of commercial vessels.

Replacing both the AP70 and AP80 as our IMO/SOLAS autopilot controller, the AP70 Mk2 retains much of the well-reputed platform of its predecessors, but with a brilliant new display and modernised software interface.

Engineered for responsiveness, robustness and ease of use, the AP70Mk2 pairs a precision rotary control dial with dedicated buttons for instant access to steering modes, several custom-configurable work modes and multiple rudder/thruster integration.

Wheelmarked for use on SOLAS vessels
The AP70 Mk2 builds on, and continues the legacy of the SIMRAD Pro autopilot product portfolio. Its performance, robustness and quality are proven and recognised with the wheelmark symbol, making it suitable for all vessels ranging from small work- boats to large tankers.

Advanced configuration and tuning options to suit all ships
Parameters ranges and tuning options to support vessel dynamics. Adjustable for all weather conditions, hull types, work situations. Suitable for retro-fit on old ships as well as modern new-builds.

Compatible with all common rudder/drive types
Water jet, Azi-pods, Voith-Schneider, Rudder, outboard. Control signals to control, hydraulic pumps, solenoids, analog current/voltage, control/handshake signals.

Up to 6 rudders/thrusters integration
Dual rudders, fore and aft thrusters supports large and complex installations and redundancy.

Heavy-duty rudder feedback support
Simrad heavy-duty rudder feedbacks are supported.

Configurable Work Mode and Low/High Speed Modes
Autopilot settings can be tuned for optimal performance in separate low-speed, high-speed, and Work modes. The user-configurable Work mode allows the autopilot system to be configured for optimal response in a specific situation, such as a fully laden vessel, configurable thruster usage.

No Drift Steering
No Drift mode integrates GPS navigation with auto-steering, using position data to counteract the effects of wind and tide. This allows the AP70 Mk2 to maintain a straight track over ground on the current course, without the need to manually set a waypoint or route.

Navigation steering, route following
Navigation steering controls the ship on a pre-planned route from a Simrad MFD, Simrad ECDIS or third party MFD and ECDIS.

Command transfer and multiple control stations support
Command transfer is a mechanism useful in multi-controller installations. It enables the officer on watch to allow, deny the transfer of autopilot control to control devices such as a secondary AP70 Mk2 or a remote controller on a bridge wing station, above deck, or aft bridge depending on the work scenario. The AP70 Mk2 can also be used in an open configuration, where control flow is unrestricted.

Features:

• Wheelmarked for use on board SOLAS vessels (IMO, MED-B)


• Advanced configuration and tuning options to suit all ships


• Compatible with all common rudder/drive types


• Up to 6 rudders/thrusters integration


• Heavy-duty rudder feedback support


• Configurable work modes and low/high speed modes


• No Drift steering holds course against wind and tide


• Navigation steering, route following


• Command transfer and multiple control stations support

The Simrad AP70 Mk2 Autopilot Control Head is a dedicated marine autopilot designed for professional mariners operating a wide range of commercial vessels. Building on the legacy of the AP70 and AP80 models, the AP70 Mk2 features an advanced display and a modern software interface that enhances usability and responsiveness. Engineered for durability and precision, it combines a rotary control dial with dedicated buttons, providing instant access to steering modes, customizable work modes, and multiple rudder or thruster integrations. Its robust design and wheelmark certification ensure compliance with IMO/SOLAS standards, making it suitable for vessels from small workboats to large tankers. The system supports advanced configuration options tailored to various vessel dynamics, weather conditions, hull types, and operational scenarios, making it adaptable for retrofitting older ships or integrating into new builds. Compatibility extends to all common rudder and drive types, including water jets, azipods, Voith-Schneider, and outboard engines, with control signals for hydraulic pumps and other actuators. The AP70 Mk2 supports up to six rudders or thrusters, enabling complex and redundant control systems for large vessels. Heavy-duty rudder feedback support ensures precise steering response, while configurable work and speed modes optimize performance for different operational conditions. One of its key features is the No Drift Steering mode, which integrates GPS navigation to maintain a steady course despite environmental influences like wind or tide, eliminating the need for manual waypoint adjustments. Navigation steering and route following functionalities allow the vessel to adhere to pre-planned routes through compatible MFDs or ECDIS systems. Command transfer and multi-control station support facilitate flexible operation, enabling control handover among bridge stations or remote controllers, which is vital for dynamic vessel operations. Overall, the Simrad AP70 Mk2 Autopilot Control Head offers a comprehensive, reliable solution for modern commercial ships requiring advanced autopilot capabilities with seamless integration, configurability, and compliance with international safety standards.

Features:

• Wheelmarked for use on board SOLAS vessels (IMO, MED-B)

• Advanced configuration and tuning options to suit all ships

• Compatible with all common rudder/drive types

• Supports up to 6 rudders or thrusters for complex installations

• Heavy-duty rudder feedback support for precise control

• Configurable work modes and low/high speed settings

• No Drift steering maintains course against wind and tide

• Navigation steering and route following capabilities

• Command transfer and support for multiple control stations